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Three Bells of Fira: Santorini's Iconic Vista

Capture the iconic beauty of Santorini at the Three Bells of Fira, a picturesque church with stunning caldera views and Cycladic charm.

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The Three Bells of Fira, officially the Catholic Church of the Dormition, is a postcard-perfect church perched on the cliffs of Santorini. Known for its whitewashed walls, striking blue dome, and three prominent bells, it offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the volcanic caldera, making it one of the island's most photographed landmarks.

A brief summary to Three Bells of Fira

  • Fira, 847 00, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the best lighting for photos.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the approach to the church involves some walking, especially if coming from Fira.
  • Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views of the caldera, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding islands.
  • Be respectful of the church as it is a place of worship; dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the views are best enjoyed on a clear day.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Fira, walk towards the caldera. Follow the path along the cliffside, passing shops and restaurants. Continue towards Firostefani; the Three Bells of Fira will be visible on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes from Fira's center. There are signs along the way to guide you.

  • Public Transport

    Take the local bus from Fira to Firostefani. The bus station is near Fira's central square. From Firostefani, walk towards the caldera. Follow the signs to the Three Bells of Fira, which is about a 5-minute walk. Bus tickets cost approximately €2.00-€2.50. Purchase tickets on the bus with cash.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi from anywhere in Fira to the Three Bells of Fira. The taxi rank is located below Fira's main square. The ride is short, approximately 3 minutes, and costs between €10-€13. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

  • Driving

    Drive towards Firostefani from Fira. There is limited parking near the church. Parking options include public lots and street parking. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. Consider parking further away and walking. The new Fira Central Parking is located behind Jerry's Santorini donut shop. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around €5 for the first hour at private lots.

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Discover more about Three Bells of Fira

The Three Bells of Fira, also known as the Catholic Church of Koimisi Tis Theotokou (Dormition of the Virgin Mary), is an iconic symbol of Santorini, gracing countless postcards and travel guides. This picturesque church is not only a place of worship but also a prime destination for visitors seeking to capture the island's unparalleled beauty. Originally, the site housed two cave churches in the mid-17th century. As the cliff eroded, these were replaced by a church built in 1757, which has since been rebuilt several times. The church suffered significant damage in the 1956 Amorgos earthquake but was subsequently restored. Its architecture exemplifies the classic Cycladic style, with whitewashed walls that gleam in the sunlight and a vibrant blue dome that mirrors the Aegean Sea. The bell tower, adorned with three bells, adds to the church's unique charm. Located on the edge of the caldera in Fira, the church provides stunning panoramic views. From this vantage point, visitors can see the nearby island of Thirassia and the volcanic isles of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. The church is easily accessible from the center of Fira, whether by car or on foot. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light. The church celebrates its feast day, the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, on August 15th.

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